BREAKING NEWS: Construction has officially commenced on the new Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, set to transform a former industrial site in Bristol into a cutting-edge educational facility. The groundbreaking ceremony took place last week, marking a significant step towards opening a school that will initially serve 1,600 pupils.
Located on Silverthorne Lane within the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone, the new school is a collaborative effort between Graham Construction and Oasis Community Learning. This innovative project promises to provide a permanent, purpose-built space tailored for learning and community engagement.
Richard James, head of school at Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, expressed his enthusiasm: “[The] groundbreaking ceremony is a proud moment for Oasis and for East Central. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that will see our students and community benefit from a permanent, purpose-built space designed for learning, growth, and connection.”
The project’s design includes a modern main school building and the conversion of a historic boiler shop into a sports hall, maintaining the site’s rich industrial history. The academy will accommodate students aged 11 to 16, with plans to expand to include a sixth form by September 2027.
Peter Reavey, regional director at Graham, highlighted the importance of this development: “Groundbreaking ceremonies are always special, but this one felt particularly meaningful given the scale of the project and the passion of the school community.” He added that this facility is expected to serve generations of young people in Bristol.
The ceremonial event featured notable speakers, including Rev Steve Chalke, the founder of Oasis, alongside Mr. James and Mr. Reavey, as well as students and community representatives. Their presence underscored the project’s significance for local residents and future students alike.
This new academy represents a crucial investment in education for the region, transforming a site that was once one of the largest steelworks in Europe. It aims to create an inspiring learning environment that combines specialized teaching spaces with facilities promoting student well-being and community connection.
As work progresses, the community eagerly anticipates the positive impact of the Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, which aims to nurture confident, curious, and compassionate individuals ready to thrive in a modern world.
Stay tuned for further updates on this transformative project as it develops.
